The Voice of the Formerly Incarcerated
We are a statewide movement rooted in 7 locations across Michigan, employing a workforce almost entirely comprised of formerly incarcerated and system-impacted individuals. Our organization is built on the belief that those closest to the challenges hold the keys to real solutions.
We represent the over 2 million Michigan families impacted by the criminal legal system. Collectively, our staff carries over 500 years of lived experience in state and federal correctional institutions. This lived experience fuels our commitment to dismantling systemic barriers, centering authentic solutions, and amplifying the voices of those too often silenced.
At Nation Outside, we are more than advocates—we are change makers. From trauma-informed peer-led reentry programs to policy innovation and community empowerment, we’re rewriting the narrative of system-impacted lives.
Planting Hope, Growing Change
🌱 Join Us for Seeds of Change 2025
Thursday, September 25 | 5:00 PM | 2000 Brooklyn St. Detroit, MI 48226
Be part of an unforgettable evening celebrating resilience, community, and
the power of second chances.
Seeds of Change is more than a fundraiser — it’s a movement. This year’s benefit will kick off our fall giving campaign and help us reach a bold goal:
1,000 Welcome Home Kits for system-impacted individuals returning to their communities.
🎟️ Grab your ticket today and stand with us as we:
Each Ticket Includes:
-
2 Complimentary Drink Tickets
-
Heavy Hors D'oeuvres
-
Free Parking
-
Honor justice champions with our Changemakers award
-
Share powerful peer-led stories
-
Launch our fall giving campaign through Giving Tuesday
-
Raise critical funds for reentry support and advocacy
Can’t make it? You can still be a part of the change by donating or sponsoring a Welcome Home Kit.
✨ Every ticket plants a seed — help us grow something powerful.
Thursday, September 25, 2025
Doors Open at 5pm
2000 Brooklyn St. Detroit, MI 48226
Contact Tenee Gildea, Executive Coordinator
Our Vision
To transform the landscape of reentry and justice in the U.S. by centering lived experience as expertise.
We envision a world where people impacted by the criminal legal system lead the movement to create lasting change—breaking barriers, building futures, and ensuring that every person has the opportunity to heal, thrive, and lead.
Our Mission
Is to advance policies and practices that create transformative systems of support for individuals, families, and communities impacted by the criminal legal system.
Statewide Impact, Lived Experience, Lasting Change
Our Services
See how lived experience fuels our programs to break barriers and build stronger communities
Trauma-Informed Peer-Led Reentry (TIPLR)
A groundbreaking program that connects justice-impacted individuals with peer mentors who have lived experience, offering holistic support, transportation, and resources to build stability and success after incarceration.
Peer Navigator Certification
We provide specialized training and certification for individuals with lived experience to become peer navigators, equipping them with the skills and credentials to guide others through reentry and access critical community resources.
Community Engagement
Through education, advocacy, and grassroots organizing, we empower justice-impacted individuals and communities to drive systemic change and influence policies that impact reentry, housing, employment, and public safety.
Videos
